October 15th, 2008

Today in History

1991:
Following a bitter confirmation hearing that involved allegations of sexual misconduct, the United States Senate votes to confirm Judge Clarence Thomas to the Supreme Court of the United States.

1981:
Professional cheerleader Krazy George Henderson leads what is thought to be the first audience wave in Oakland, California.

1970:
Thirty-five construction workers are killed when a section of the new West Gate Bridge in Melbourne collapses.

1940:
The Great Dictator, a satiric social commentary film by and starring Charlie Chaplin, is released.

1917:
World War I: At Vincennes outside of Paris, Dutch dancer Mata Hari is executed by firing squad for spying for Germany.